This is a beautiful and difficult hike. The hiking isn't demanding, it is the distance and elevation gain that makes it challenging. A few tips from my experience. It can be climbed in 4.5 hours, time it accordingly to catch sunrise. Total time is 8 hours without taking into account an hour to take photos at the top. My group got to the top with hours to spare and were so cold. Wear pants, several layers, hat and gloves. The top is normally 7 degrees with some wind. I completed this hike in January 2018 from the guard house. Best time December to AprilTrail Length: 16.77 miles / 27 km roundtrip (up and back)Elevation Gain: 7,498 feet (2,274 meters)Elevation of Volcan Baru Summit: 11,398 feet / 3,474 metersTemperature at Summit: 45 Fahrenheit / 7 Celsius (approximate lows)